A look at the Big Ten basketball race

Monday

Dec 26, 2011 at 12:01 AMDec 26, 2011 at 11:35 AM

Here's one prediction 1 through 12.

John Supinie

A look at the Big Ten race

-- John Supinie, GateHouse News Service
After non-conference play, here's another chance to predict the Big Ten finish.
--
1. Ohio State
Despite personnel losses, Ohio State is still the league's power behind big man Jared Sullinger.
2. Indiana
Don't look now, but the Hoosiers are back with freshman Cody Zeller, who gives them a man in the middle.
3. Wisconsin
Here's some advice. Never underestimate the Badgers and coach Bo Ryan.
4. Michigan State
The Spartans opened season with losses to North Carolina and Duke, then ran off 11 straight wins.
5. Michigan
Can guard Trey Burke give the Wolverines what they're missing with guard Darius Morris gone to the NBA?
6. Illinois
With so many close games expected, the Illini will need to make plays down the stretch and find a go-to scorer.
7. Purdue
The Boilers have Robbie Hummel, but he must miss former classmates E'Twaun Moore and JaJuan Johnson.
8. Northwestern
Forwards John Shurna and Drew Crawford rank 1-2 in Big Ten scoring, so the Wildcats eye their first NCAA berth. Again.
9. Nebraska
Coach Doc Sadler's half-court style and defense will likely play better in the Big Ten than Big 12.
10. Minnesota
Loss of forward Trevor Mbakwe to a season-ending knee injury in November was a kick in the gut.
11. Iowa
The Hawkeyes are still in the midst of rebuilding. Remember how good they were under Tom Davis decades ago?
12. Penn State
The good news for Nittany Lions basketball is there hasn't been much bad news on the hard wood.

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